How Do I Change My Therapist On BetterHelp? Better Mental Health With Online Therapy

A strong client/therapist relationship often yields better therapeutic outcomes, which is why it can be so important to feel comfortable making a change if you don’t feel that your therapist is a good match. BetterHelp can make it easy to find the right therapist—and request a new one with a few clicks if you need to. In this post, you’ll learn how to switch therapists on the BetterHelp platform and how to recognize when it might be time to look for a new therapist. It also explains why a strong relationship with your therapist matters and offers tips for how to find the right therapist for you. 

How do I change my therapist on BetterHelp?

To change from one therapist to another, first log in to your BetterHelp account through the website or mobile app. Once you’ve logged on:

• Click on your profile icon (located in the top right corner).
• Navigate to the “account settings” section within your profile.
• Navigate to the “my therapist” section and click on the option to request a new therapist.
• Browse through the list of new therapists and choose one that meets your needs or allow BetterHelp to match you with one.
• Click on the "select this counselor" button to confirm your new therapist.

Should I share why I’ve decided to switch therapists with BetterHelp?

You may be asked to provide feedback on your current therapist, including why you wanted to switch. Sharing isn’t mandatory, but giving feedback can help BetterHelp match you with the best possible replacement. 

Do I have to tell my old counselor I’ve decided to change therapists?

You don’t have to communicate with your therapist about why you’d like to find someone new; BetterHelp can inform them if you prefer. However, discussing your reasons with them may allow them to offer better service for others in the future.

What can I expect once I change therapists?

Once you’ve completed the process, BetterHelp can match you with another licensed therapist, and you’ll be notified once they accept your request. From there, you can message your new counselor and schedule therapy sessions. 

Sharing with your new therapist

It may help to speak to your new therapist about your experience. Communicate your expectations, goals, and reasons for seeking treatment—and consider sharing what didn’t work last time. 

How do I know if I need to switch therapists?

Some people easily recognize when it’s time to change counselors. For others, it may not be as obvious. Signs that you may need to change your counselor include:

• You don't feel like you're making any progress.
• You feel misunderstood or unheard.
• Your therapist makes you feel uncomfortable or behaves inappropriately.
• Your therapist is disrespectful or pushes their beliefs onto you.
• Your therapist seems distracted, disinterested, or frequently interrupts you during sessions.
• You feel judged or ashamed of your feelings.
• You feel worse after your sessions. 

Why does the therapeutic relationship matter for better mental health?

Research consistently shows that a strong alliance between therapist and client is  associated with several positive therapeutic outcomes, including:

• Clients with a healthy relationship with their therapist are more likely to experience positive changes and achieve their treatment goals.
• Clients who feel connected and supported by their therapist are more likely to remain in therapy and complete their treatment plan.

How do I choose the right online therapist?

When reviewing therapist profiles, verify that they’re licensed to practice in your state and have the training and experience required for addressing your specific needs. Other practical considerations might include:

• Cost: Check their fees and whether they offer financial assistance if necessary. 
• Availability and scheduling: Consider their availability and whether their scheduling fits your needs.
• Technical factors: Find out what type of medium they prefer to work from—such as video sessions, audio, or others.

Ask for a consultation

Most therapists will suggest you meet for an initial consultation. During this consultation, you might think about:

• Communication style: Pay attention to how they communicate and whether their approach resonates with you.
• Comfort level: Evaluate how comfortable you feel opening up and sharing personal information.
• Personal connection: Consider whether you feel a sense of connection and understanding with the therapist.
• Cultural competence: Ensure the therapist is culturally competent and sensitive to your background.

What are the advantages of online therapy?

There could be several potential advantages of online vs traditional treatment. These may include:

• More scheduling flexibility
• No commuting to and from appointments
• Broader choice of therapists
• Sessions from the comfort of your own home
• Easier to stay consistent with treatment

Reducing mental health stigma with online therapy 

Research shows the virtual therapeutic setting  can be less stigmatizing for those who may be hesitant to seek help in a traditional office setting. It can also help normalize the concept of seeking mental health support by making it more flexible and less daunting. 

Is online therapy effective?

Research repeatedly shows that online therapy, particularly methods like internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT), can be as effective as in-person treatment for conditions like anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and more. Additionally, online therapy may provide more proactive outcomes—one UK study found that 27,500 patients in online therapy received treatment faster, allowing them to get better sooner and avoid more intensive interventions in the future. 

BetterHelp outcomes in 2024 

Research on the efficacy of online therapy through BetterHelp shows positive therapeutic outcomes. A 2024 study found that “72% of BetterHelp clients experienced a reduction in symptoms, with 69% achieving reliable improvement and 62% reaching symptom remission.” 

I’m a first-time user. How do I get started?

To begin therapy using BetterHelp, visit the website or download the app and create an account. Then:

• Complete the intake questionnaire
• Get matched with a therapist
• Start communicating